It was the tallest building in the world for 238 years, from 1311 until 1549, when its central spire collapsed.
The Lincoln Imp, a stone carving of a mischievous creature, is the official symbol of the city of Lincoln.
The Cathedral library, designed by Christopher Wren in 1674, replaces an older medieval cloister range.
Its medieval choir stalls are among the oldest in England, dating back to the 14th century.
The west front preserves a large section of original 11th-century Norman masonry.
The building features two circular rose windows, which were designed to track the sun's path during the liturgical year.
Lincoln Cathedral is a primary example of Early English Gothic architecture, featuring the distinct 'Angel Choir' and a triple-towered facade. Founded in 1072, the current structure replaces a smaller Norman church and underwent significant expansions during the 13th and 14th centuries. It houses the Wren Library, which holds one of the four original 1215 Magna Carta copies. The central tower reaches a height of 83 meters, making it one of the tallest medieval structures in the world. Its stained glass includes notable 13th-century rose windows known as the Bishop's Eye and the Dean's Eye. The building serves as an active Anglican place of worship and a central landmark in the city of Lincoln. The interior showcases intricate stone carvings, including the famous Lincoln Imp located on a pillar in the Angel Choir. The structure sustained damage during the 1185 earthquake and was subsequently rebuilt in its current Gothic form.
The Exchequergate arch provides a framing perspective of the west front.
Join a guided tower tour to access the roof spaces and exterior galleries for a view of the city.
Check the daily service calendar, as parts of the cathedral may be restricted during formal worship or private events.
Explore the exterior cloisters for a quieter perspective of the Gothic flying buttresses.
Do not attempt the steep walk up Steep Hill if you have mobility issues; use the shuttle or taxi services to reach the hilltop area.
Occasionally closes to visitors for major ecclesiastical events, graduations, or private ceremonies.
Maintain a quiet volume; remove hats in the main nave; photographing in certain restricted chapels may be prohibited.
